www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

HI there,

I found these caterpillars on some Hedge Mustard growing by my house and believe they might be Bath Whites? Its the only one i can find that will eat the plant and looks like this??? Any ideas?

Thanks

Sharon,

That is a caterpillar of the Large White. They are specially fond of cultivated cabbages and nasturtiums, so hedge mustard is a bit more unusual.

Dave

oh.. well not to worry.
At least it will be easier to keep a couple until they change.. kids will love it anyway!

Thank you Dave

An interesting observation, Sharon. Although Hedge Mustard is not a Brassica, it does have mustard like flavour. Adults seek out plants which contain mustard oils to lay their eggs as, by eating these leaves, the caterpillars become poisonous and, thus, fairly immune to predators, even though they are quite conspicuous.

I notice that it's your first posting in the forums so, welcome, and I hope you will continue to let is know how they get on - it's great to know that the kids are taking an interest!

Mike

Thanks Dave and Mike, the children are big fans of anything that could be labelled as a 'bug' so we having a great time.. just hoping for better weather!

We building a moth trap i found in a bug hunter book next week! So maybe more ID's will be needed..lol

Sharon